How can I cope with working while fasting?

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If you're pregnant during Ramadan, you're not required to fast. You can fast at a later date. Or you can observe fidyah, which is a way of compensating for your missed fasts. You could make a donation to a food bank, for example.

However, if you have decided to fast, it's best to take it one day at a time. Going for long stretches without food or drink may make you feel tired or unwell. This can be a lot to cope with during your working day. It's important for your health and your baby's health to go easy on yourself.

Observing Ramadan traditions is a personal matter. But if you have a good relationship with your employer, talk to them about fasting at work. Your manager is likely to be sympathetic and supportive. Allowing you to have extra breaks or reduced hours is considered good practice.

During your fast, avoid activities at work that may make you tired or stressed. Work pressure on top of changes in your usual routine and diet can put a real strain on you. Pregnant women who fast have higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol in their blood than women who aren't fasting.

Don't do any activities that make you hot or thirsty. This may lead to dehydration. It's important that you slow down and take extra rests during the day whenever possible, and drink plenty of fluids after dusk.

Islamic law says that you shouldn't harm yourself while fasting. Break your fast immediately if you become sick, feel dizzy or light-headed, have blurred vision, or if you have any other worrying symptoms. Drink water that contains some salt and sugar or an oral rehydration solution.

Equality and Human Rights Commission. 2010. What equality law means for you as an employer: working hours, flexible working and time off. Equality Act: Guidance for Employers; vol. 2. Manchester: Equality and Human Rights Commission

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